Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get my teeth whitened?
If you like the color of your teeth, then the answer is no. If you would like whiter or brighter teeth, then the answer is usually yes.
Teeth whitening is very safe and has no long-term side effects. It whitens natural teeth surfaces but not fillings or crowns. In general, darker stained teeth often show a more dramatic improvement in color. Are x-rays safe?
X-rays provide us with valuable information about the teeth and bones that we otherwise cannot get. They are invaluable tools that often allow us to catch small problems before they become big ones. Some people have fears about x-rays because when x-rays were first introduced, they required higher levels of radiation. Today, it is no longer true. Should I get dentures?
People sometimes think getting dentures will solve all their problems. Dentures should not be a first choice, but a last resort. They are difficult to get used to and they will never work as well as natural teeth. Saving as many of your natural teeth as possible is the best choice. What are implants?
Implants are titanium metal posts that are placed in the jawbone and become anchored to it. They can be used to replace teeth or serve as an anchor for dentures. Implants have greatly improved the quality of life for many people. What are my filling options?
We offer our patients options when it comes to filling a cavity. It is important to know that every dental material used to repair teeth has its advantages and disadvantages.
Dental Amalgam
Dental amalgams, silver colored fillings, are composed of silver, tin, copper, mercury and zinc, and have been around for 150 years. These fillings are inexpensive and durable. Some patients are concerned about the use of mercury in dental amalgam fillings; however, research has shown that only very small amounts of mercury are released during the lifetime of a filling. In fact, normal daily intake of mercury from food, air and water exceed the amounts measured from fillings.
Composite
Composite, resin or white fillings are composed of organic particles known as BIS-GMA and inorganic particles such as quartz, glass and aluminum compounds. Aesthetically, these fillings blend in well with the teeth. However, composites cost more than amalgam and require more complex techniques to place. They are also not as durable as amalgam.
Porcelain
Porcelain is composed of silicon and oxygen and has the advantage of being highly aesthetic. It is the most brittle of the materials and quite susceptible to breakage. It is also very costly.
Gold
Gold is used as a filling in an alloy form combined with copper, silver, platinum, palladium and zinc. Gold fillings are extremely durable and last longer than other filling types. However, their cost is 2 to 4 times more than the other fillings and they require two appointments.
If you have any concerns about your fillings or the best option for your teeth, please give us a call and we would be happy to help you.
If you like the color of your teeth, then the answer is no. If you would like whiter or brighter teeth, then the answer is usually yes.
Teeth whitening is very safe and has no long-term side effects. It whitens natural teeth surfaces but not fillings or crowns. In general, darker stained teeth often show a more dramatic improvement in color. Are x-rays safe?
X-rays provide us with valuable information about the teeth and bones that we otherwise cannot get. They are invaluable tools that often allow us to catch small problems before they become big ones. Some people have fears about x-rays because when x-rays were first introduced, they required higher levels of radiation. Today, it is no longer true. Should I get dentures?
People sometimes think getting dentures will solve all their problems. Dentures should not be a first choice, but a last resort. They are difficult to get used to and they will never work as well as natural teeth. Saving as many of your natural teeth as possible is the best choice. What are implants?
Implants are titanium metal posts that are placed in the jawbone and become anchored to it. They can be used to replace teeth or serve as an anchor for dentures. Implants have greatly improved the quality of life for many people. What are my filling options?
We offer our patients options when it comes to filling a cavity. It is important to know that every dental material used to repair teeth has its advantages and disadvantages.
Dental Amalgam
Dental amalgams, silver colored fillings, are composed of silver, tin, copper, mercury and zinc, and have been around for 150 years. These fillings are inexpensive and durable. Some patients are concerned about the use of mercury in dental amalgam fillings; however, research has shown that only very small amounts of mercury are released during the lifetime of a filling. In fact, normal daily intake of mercury from food, air and water exceed the amounts measured from fillings.
Composite
Composite, resin or white fillings are composed of organic particles known as BIS-GMA and inorganic particles such as quartz, glass and aluminum compounds. Aesthetically, these fillings blend in well with the teeth. However, composites cost more than amalgam and require more complex techniques to place. They are also not as durable as amalgam.
Porcelain
Porcelain is composed of silicon and oxygen and has the advantage of being highly aesthetic. It is the most brittle of the materials and quite susceptible to breakage. It is also very costly.
Gold
Gold is used as a filling in an alloy form combined with copper, silver, platinum, palladium and zinc. Gold fillings are extremely durable and last longer than other filling types. However, their cost is 2 to 4 times more than the other fillings and they require two appointments.
If you have any concerns about your fillings or the best option for your teeth, please give us a call and we would be happy to help you.